Isabel O. Sandvær’s blog

Who am I?

My name is Isabel. I’m sixteen y/o, and I live in a small place nearby Oslo, Norway. I’m going to spend the next year (2010/2011) in the USA as an exchange student- I’m so excited, I can barely wait!
I have several interests. To mention some of them; dancing, writing, webdesign, photography, going to movies, shopping and just spending time with my loved ones.

When did you decide to go on an exchange and why?

I think I was 12 years old when I first saw an advertise for a language travelling programme in some teen magazine. I and a friend of mine wanted to participate in this Dance Camp in Malta. I started doing some research and that was when I found out it was possible to take a High School Year. I signed up to get mailings, newsletters and brochures from like every organization I could possibly find. I’ve wanted to do this ever since, but my parents didn’t take me serious until September this year. I applied October 19.

You are going to USA. What made you chose USA?

I’ve always had a predilection for this country, I have no idea why. All my life I’ve been living in this very small village, and now I want to experience something new, something bigger. I want to learn more about America, the American culture and lifestyle (haha) and i want to speak fluent English.

What is your biggest fear with your upcoming exchange year?

I don’t really have any big fears, but of course I am a little concerned about a few things. Will I be able to keep up the good grades, or at least get the grades i need to have to not be sent back home? I have so many questions about the new acquaintances. If things don’t go well with my host family, will I get the help I need to sort things out? Am I gonna get any friends, and how long will it take? Lately I’ve also been thinking about my first day at school. Haha.